Bobrisky Reveals Reasons for Leaving Nigeria
Popular Nigerian crossdresser Idris Okuneye, known as Bobrisky, has recently shared on social media why he decided to leave Nigeria, countering rumors that he was escaping legal troubles. In a message posted on his platform, Bobrisky confirmed that he had left the country after two earlier attempts, although he did not disclose his current location. Instead, he focused on sharing a scenic view from his hotel room, expressing excitement about his surroundings. “Good morning, guys; my view is so beautiful, oh my God,” he shared with his followers.
In his post, the 33-year-old influencer emphasized that his departure was a temporary measure for his mental health and well-being. He explained that he faced significant challenges from certain Nigerian security agencies that tried to obstruct his plans. “A few Nigerian security agencies tried everything to frustrate me, but nah, I gat God,” he stated, reflecting on the struggles he encountered. Bobrisky also highlighted the difficulties he faced in securing flights, revealing that he had purchased business class tickets three times but could only successfully travel once. Each ticket cost him around 9.8 million naira, and he noted that people should consider their own finances before commenting on his situation.
Bobrisky’s troubles this year have been quite significant. Just a couple of months prior, he was detained by the Nigerian Immigration Services at the Seme border. Earlier in April, he received a six-month prison sentence for an incident where he sprayed the Nigerian naira at an event, an act deemed illegal under Nigerian law. After serving part of his sentence at Kirikiri prison, he was released on August 5, and many were surprised to see him looking healthier than when he had entered.
Shortly after his release, allegations emerged suggesting that Bobrisky only spent three weeks in prison before being moved to a private location. An audio leak allegedly featuring his voice claimed he had bribed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) with 15 million naira to dismiss money laundering charges against him. It also implicated a well-known human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, claiming he sought 10 million naira to secure a presidential pardon for Bobrisky. In response, Falana denied the allegations, demanded a retraction, and issued a cease-and-desist letter. Bobrisky, in turn, dismissed the audio as doctored and suggested that Falana should direct his attention towards the person who leaked it.
In light of these ongoing controversies, a committee led by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, was established to investigate the claims made in the audio. The committee concluded that there was no evidence proving that Bobrisky served his prison time outside the correctional facility. Despite these issues, Bobrisky has left Nigeria, prioritizing his health and mental well-being during a turbulent period.
As he navigates these challenges, Bobrisky’s departure reflects not just personal struggles but also the intense scrutiny faced by public figures in Nigeria. His story highlights the complexities of fame and the lengths individuals may go to seek peace and stability amid public and legal pressures.